Pros and Cons B&B vs. Container Material
From left to right: Bare Root, B&B, and Container
B&B (Ball and Burlap) Material
Pros
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Maturity: B&B trees are often sold by height, which can provide an immediate visual impact and a sense of maturity in the landscape.
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Root Ball: They come with a soil ball that can help with stability and establishment in the new location.
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Seasonal Planting: Ideal for planting in the fall, allowing roots to establish during cooler and wetter conditions.
Burlap removed for planting
Cons-
Root Loss: During the digging process, a significant portion of the roots are cut away, which can affect the tree's initial establishment.
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Handling: B&B trees can be heavier and more difficult to handle, often requiring professional equipment for planting.
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Synthetic Wrappings: Modern B&B plants may come with synthetic wrappings that need to be removed to allow for proper rooting.
Container Material
Pros
- Root Retention: Container plants retain their entire root system, which can lead to better establishment and growth after planting.
- Flexibility: They can be planted at any time the soil is workable, not just when dormant.
- Variety: There may be a wider variety of species available in containers.
Cons:
- Root Circling: Roots can become pot-bound or grow in circles, requiring careful spreading or cutting during planting.
- Environmental Stress: Plants in containers can suffer from heat and drought stress if not properly cared for in the retail environment.
- Irrigation Needs: Container plants may require more frequent watering after planting to ensure proper establishment.
Both B&B and container plants have their advantages and drawbacks. The choice between them should be based on the specific needs of your landscape, the care the plants have received, and your ability to provide the necessary aftercare. With this knowledge you can better select your trees for your needs.
Plant Joy!